Is it safe to live in Florida with sinkholes?

Technically, no. The entire state of Florida is underlain with carbonate rocks, therefore, sinkholes could theoretically appear anywhere. However, some areas definitely have higher risk of sinkhole development than others.

What part of Florida is safest from sinkholes?

But as terrifying as that sounds and the fact that Florida is arguably the world’s capital of sinkhole activity — the Tampa area is nicknamed “Sinkhole Alley” — Orlando is one of the state’s safer zones to set up shop, when it comes to avoiding catastrophic sinkholes.

What are the odds of dying in a sinkhole?

In the United States, sinkholes are especially common in Texas, Alabama, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Pennsylvania and Florida, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The actuarial risk of a catastrophic sinkhole happening is low—researchers put it at a one-in-100 chance of occurring in any given year.

Should I be worried about a sinkhole?

1. If a sinkhole threatens your house, get out immediately, and call your local emergency management organization, then your insurance company. 2. If you suspect a sinkhole is beginning, call your insurance company, which will send an adjuster to determine if the hole or depression needs further investigation.

What cities in Florida have the most sinkholes?

This map of Florida shows multiple areas where sinkholes have been common in Florida. Tallahassee and most of Central Florida (Ocala, Homosassa, Spring Hill, Orlando, Tampa, and Lakeland) have been affected the most by these sinkholes.

Where is the safest place in Florida?

Safest Cities Overall

• COOPER CITY, FL. Safety Score:96.7. + Population:36,896. Property Crimes (per 100,000):1,174.
• WESTON, FL. Safety Score:96.6. + Population:71,744.
• SEBASTIAN, FL. Safety Score:95.3. + Population:25,672.
• PORT ST. LUCIE, FL. Safety Score:94.8. +
• PORT ORANGE, FL. Safety Score:94.1. + Population:64,208.

What towns in Florida have the most sinkholes?

Sinkholes are particularly common in the Florida counties of Pasco, Hernando and Hillsborough—known collectively as the state’s “Sinkhole Alley.”

What city has the most sinkholes in Florida?

WHERE ARE SINKHOLES MOST COMMON IN FLORIDA? Three counties in the Tampa region are known as “sinkhole alley.” Two-thirds of the sinkhole damage claims reported to the state Office of Insurance Regulation from 2006 to 2010 came from Hernando, Hillsborough and Pasco counties.

Has anyone been killed by a sinkhole?

The recent death of Jeff Bush in a Florida sinkhole has highlighted the dangers of these natural phenomena. Although sinkholes cause an average of 17 insurance claims a day in Florida alone, deaths are rare.

Should I be scared of sinkholes in Florida?

Florida’s geological landscape makes to presence of sinkholes more common than most homeowners would like. Sinkholes are not only dangerous but can cause devastating property and home damage – making Florida sinkhole coverage a must-have for many Florida homeowners.

Do you know about the sinkhole areas in Florida?

Really the entire country knows about sinkhole areas in Florida. The sinkhole areas in Florida make the national news headlines again and again year after year as the geologic phenomenon seems to swallow up more and more of the Sunshine State. Why are there so many sinkhole areas in Florida? Is there any way you can avoid dealing with a sinkhole?

What are the dangers of sinkholes?

Serious sinkholes can destroy entire houses and even neighborhoods. But even when they’re not as severe, sinkhole depressions can cause a lot of problems for homeowners – cracks, plumbing problems, foundation problems, slab leaks and more.

How do you know if you have a sinkhole on your property?

Most sinkholes give early warning signs before they create become a serious threat. Look for the common signs of sinkhole activity such as: Cracks in interior joint areas. Cracks in stucco or exterior block. Sticking windows and doors. Yard or street depressions. Separations, cracks, and gaps in concrete.

What is the Florida sinkhole Research Institute (FSRI)?

In 1982, the Florida Sinkhole Research Institute was created at the University of Central Florida in Orlando. At that time, all FGS sinkhole data files were transferred to the FSRI. One of their duties was to compile and tabulate this information and convert it to a computer database.